Roughly 25% to 30% of autistic people are minimally verbal or do not speak, using few to no words, while many others have speech delays or difficulties, though this varies greatly, with some developing speech later or using alternative communication. The figure has decreased from past estimates due to broader diagnoses and earlier interventions, and being nonverbal doesn't mean a lack of understanding, as many communicate through AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) like picture boards or devices.
About one-third of autistic people are unable to communicate using speech, and most are never provided an effective alternative.
Around 90% of autism cases are attributed to genetic factors, meaning autism is highly heritable, with many different genes contributing, rather than a single cause, often interacting with environmental influences during early brain development, though specific environmental factors don't cause it but can increase risk. Twin studies show strong genetic links, with concordance rates between 60-90% in identical twins, and research points to complex interactions of many genes and prenatal/perinatal factors.
Research indicates that individuals with Level 3 Autism may have a life expectancy as low as 35 to 40 years old [2]. Over a 20-year period, 6.4% of individuals with autism spectrum disorder died at an average age of 39 years due to chronic conditions, accidents, and health complications [1].
Researchers published the hopeful findings that, even after age 4, many nonverbal children with autism eventually develop language. For good reason, families, teachers and others want to know how they can promote language development in nonverbal children or teenagers with autism.
Around 25% to 30% of people with ASD will not develop functional language or are minimally verbal.
Yes, many individuals with Level 3 (severe) autism can develop spoken language, though progress varies greatly, with some remaining minimally verbal or non-verbal, relying on alternative methods like AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) for communication; early, consistent therapy focusing on personalized strategies (gestures, sounds, AAC) significantly increases the chances for functional communication, even if it's not traditional speech.
Among the causes of death, 27.9% were due to injuries, with suffocation being the most common, followed by asphyxia and drowning. The increased risk of drowning among autistic individuals has been confirmed by two additional studies.
The longest living autistic person known is Donald Gray Triplett, famously known as “Case 1,” who was the first person ever diagnosed with autism. He lived until 89 years old, passing away in 2023.
Outgrowing Autism
While some may observe improvements in specific traits, an accurate diagnosis of autism is lifelong. It is not possible to wholly outgrow autism, as it is a neurodevelopmental condition that an individual is born with.
The "6-second rule" for autism is a communication strategy where a speaker pauses for about six seconds after asking a question or giving information, giving the autistic person extra time to process it without feeling rushed, which helps reduce anxiety and allows for a more thoughtful response, reducing frustration for both parties. Instead of repeating or rephrasing, which can be confusing, you wait, and if needed, repeat the exact same words after the pause.
Researchers are not sure what causes autism, but they believe genetic and environmental factors play a role. Risk factors can include having older parents or a sibling with ASD, genetic or chromosomal conditions like Down syndrome or fragile X syndrome, and very low birth weight.
Donald Triplett, autism's 'Case 1,' dies at 89. Triplett gained media attention for his autism later in life, and he became the face of the effort to research the lives of older adults with autism.
Level 3 autism is the most severe form of the disorder. Compared to levels 1 and 2, it requires a significant amount of additional outside help and support, especially in a school setting. In some cases, level 3 autistic individuals may need assistance with daily living throughout their lives.
Why People Go Nonverbal When Upset. Children on the autism spectrum may become nonverbal during moments of distress due to various factors. This can occur due to intense feelings, sensory overload, or challenges in understanding spoken language at that moment.
New research from King's College London sheds light on how some autistic people can disguise their social difficulties and show good social skills when interacting with others.
Clinicians who encountered autism in the 1950s and 1960s called it by many names. Among them were Kanner's syndrome (named after Leo Kanner), early infantile autism, hyperkinetic disease, and Heller's disease (based on 1908 description by Austrian educator Theodor Heller), also known as dementia infantilis.
While neurotypical flirting often involves playful teasing or indirect hints, autistic individuals may be more straightforward in their compliments. They might say something like, “I really like the way you talk about history” or “You have a nice voice” without any hidden meaning.
Savant syndrome is a rare, but extraordinary, condition in which persons with serious mental disabilities, including autistic disorder, have some 'island of genius' which stands in marked, incongruous contrast to overall handicap.
What NOT to Say to Someone with Autism
"Looping" in autism, often called "autism looping," is a non-clinical term for getting stuck in repetitive thought patterns, questions, or phrases, like a broken record, often due to anxiety, sensory overload, or a need for resolution, making it hard to switch focus and causing stress, overlapping with perseveration and rumination. It can manifest as replaying conversations, worrying intensely, or repeating sounds/words (echolalia) as a way to process or self-regulate.
Top 10 Calming Strategies for Autism
The three main symptom areas for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are persistent difficulties with social communication and interaction, restricted or repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities, and often, different ways of learning, moving, or paying attention, all of which impact daily functioning. These core characteristics vary greatly but center on social connection challenges, rigid routines or repetitive actions, and sensory sensitivities.
Some autistic kids may show their closeness through wanting to be near their parents, seeking help only from them, or relying on familiar routines that involve family. Others might express attachment more subtly through shared activities, small gestures, or by feeling most at ease in their parents' presence.